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Easy Ground Beef Tacos Recipe

Easy Ground Beef Tacos Recipe


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4.9 from 16 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Mouthwatering Ground Beef Tacos bring Mexican street-style flavor straight to your kitchen. Savory seasoned meat, crisp toppings, and warm tortillas create a simple yet irresistible meal you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein Base:

  • 1 pound ground beef (80-85% lean)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

Seasoning and Sauce:

  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Taco Components and Toppings:

  • 810 taco shells (soft or hard)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
  • 1 cup shredded iceberg or romaine lettuce
  • 1 large tomato, diced
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
  • 1/2 cup salsa (optional)
  • 1 avocado, sliced or 1/2 cup guacamole (optional)
  • Sliced jalapeños (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high temperature and crumble ground beef, cooking until completely browned and no pink remains.
  2. Eliminate excess grease from the pan by carefully draining fat through a colander.
  3. Return skillet to heat and incorporate finely diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until vegetables become translucent and fragrant.
  4. Sprinkle taco seasoning across the meat mixture, stirring thoroughly to distribute evenly.
  5. Pour water into the skillet and reduce heat, allowing the mixture to simmer for approximately 5-7 minutes until sauce thickens and coats the meat.
  6. While meat simmers, prepare taco shells by warming them in the oven at 350°F for 3-4 minutes or according to package recommendations.
  7. Create individual tacos by spooning seasoned beef into each shell, ensuring even distribution.
  8. Customize with preferred toppings such as shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, crisp lettuce, and tangy sour cream.
  9. Serve immediately while meat remains hot and shells maintain their crisp texture.

Notes

  • Enhance flavor by using fresh ground beef with higher fat content for juicier results.
  • Customize seasoning by mixing your own blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, and oregano for a personalized taste profile.
  • Create a healthier version by substituting ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives for lighter protein options.
  • Prep toppings in advance to streamline the cooking process and allow for quick assembly when serving family-style tacos.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 430 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 470 mg
  • Fat: 29 g
  • Saturated Fat: 11 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 15 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg